Planning a trip to Houston or Galveston this summer? Why not transform your vehicle into a time machine while diving into some captivating Texas history during your journey?
By Suzan Dees | Contributor
Did you know that Texas boasts more than 15,000 historical markers? Our state is filled with a wealth of history. So, as you embark on your summer road adventures, consider taking the time to learn about some fascinating historical moments.
First Destination: Huntsville
In Huntsville, you can find the largest statue of an American figure. Standing at an impressive 77 feet tall, General Sam Houston is a true Texas icon. The city is also home to the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, which celebrates the life of Texas’s first president. This museum features interactive demonstrations such as blacksmithing, woodworking, tin crafting, and pioneer skills, providing fun for all ages.
Next Stop: Houston
A compelling, yet poignant visit is to the Houston Holocaust Museum. One of its permanent exhibitions, The Red Handkerchief, is based on Yvonne Ward-Hughes’s book The Red Handkerchief, which recounts her mother and aunt’s courageous resistance in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. “In the years following World War II, significant insights into the perpetrators of the Nazi atrocities have emerged, and many Holocaust survivors have begun to share their personal stories. Notably, the original hand-sewn red handkerchief that inspired the tale, along with a letter from Albert Einstein, is part of the museum’s permanent display,” situated in the vibrant Houston Museum District, which boasts 19 museums and is open daily except on holidays.
While in Houston, you should also visit the Battleship Texas along with the San Jacinto Monument and Museum. The Battleship Texas is the last of its kind in the world and is unique for having served in both World War I and II. Guests can board this historical vessel for an unforgettable experience. Located just outside Houston in La Porte, the San Jacinto Monument reaches an astounding height of 567 feet. An observation deck near its summit offers panoramic views of the Houston ship channel and the Battleship Texas from 480 feet in the air. The monument’s lobby also contains a museum featuring over 30,000 artifacts, including personal belongings, weaponry, and political documents from notable Texans.
Galveston: More than just beaches and shopping
Be sure to visit the 1900 Storm Memorial Statue on Seawall Blvd. This striking 10-foot-tall bronze monument was installed to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the catastrophic storm, serving as a somber reminder of one of the deadliest natural disasters in U.S. history, commissioned by a fourth-generation resident of Galveston.
After enjoying the sun, delve into some history at the Pier 21 Theater. Here, a 27-minute documentary recounts the harrowing tale of the 1900 hurricane and the subsequent sea wall. Additionally, you can watch an 18-minute film about the notorious pirate Jean Laffite and another feature named “Who Do You Think You Are,” which focuses on Galveston’s significant role as an immigration port.
We are fortunate to reside in a state brimming with vibrant and intriguing history. Taking the time to discover something new while on holiday is an excellent way to engage your children and stimulate your own mind.
Happy Time Traveling!
